BCX-4208 (PNP Inhibitor)

BCX-4208 is a potent, rationally-designed, second-generation orally available small molecule inhibitor of purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP). A recent study has shown that BCX-4208 may have utility in diseases dependent on T-cells, B-cells or uric acid. With its novel mechanism of action, BCX-4208 has the potential to address unmet medical needs across a broad spectrum of autoimmune diseases as well as in the area of acute transplant rejection.

In May 2008, BioCryst provided a development update on the BCX-4208 development program. Read the full release here:

BioCryst Reports First Quarter 2008 Financial Results and Clinical Update

About Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks the body's own cells rather than invading microorganisms. There are more than 80 clinically distinct autoimmune diseases (i.e. multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and some types of diabetes), each affecting the body in different ways. Presentation of these diseases can also vary from patient to patient with the same condition, and can lead to organ failure requiring transplantation. Corticosteroids are still the mainstay of treatment for many autoimmune diseases and physicians have to constantly balance the requirement for best possible disease control with the drug related morbidities associated with long term steroid exposure.

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More research information

BCX-4208 (PNP Inhibitor)